Introduction
Elderly adults are at a higher risk for dehydration. When elderly adults experience mild to moderate dehydration, their overall quality of life may decrease significantly. Elderly adults who experience severe dehydration may be at a greater risk for serious complications. Dehydration can also lead to other systemic problems such as urinary tract infections, diarrhea and constipation, cardiovascular diseases, pneumonia and falls. In extreme cases of severe dehydration an elderly adult may need intravenous fluids or hospitalization depending on the degree of severity.
Dehydration is a consequence of loss in body fluid, either from thirst, fever, illness, use of certain medications or a lack of fluids. Dehydration can be mild or severe and has been found to be associated with serious consequences in elderly adults. Mild dehydration occurs when the body has lost 1-3% of a person’s total body water. Severe dehydration occurs when a person loses more than 3% of his or her total body water.
In elderly adults mild dehydration can decrease physical activity, reduce cognitive functions and lead to other systemic problems such as urinary tract infection, diarrhea and constipation, cardiovascular diseases, pneumonia and falls. In extreme cases an elderly adult may need intravenous fluid or hospitalization depending on the degree of severity.
12 Side Effects Of Dehydration In Elderly Adults
1. Skin
The skin is the largest organ of the human body and also, it is very vulnerable to dehydration. The elderly may experience changes in their skin due to dehydration. Skin changes such as cracking, scaling and itching may occur in areas such as the hands, soles of feet or scrotum.
2. Cardiovascular System
Cardiovascular system comprises blood vessels, heart and blood that circulates throughout the body. Dehydration can reduce blood volume and increase heart rate which can cause an individual’s blood pressure to drop significantly. When an elderly adult experiences significant changes in blood pressure they may feel dizzy or faint if they are standing up or sitting in a chair.
3. Gastrointestinal System
The gastrointestinal system is responsible for absorbing, digesting, and eliminating wastes from the body. Dehydration can cause digestive problems such as diarrhea, constipation and vomiting. A bite to the abdomen or chest may occur due to nausea, irregular heart rate and increased blood pressure in the system.
4. Behavioral Changes
Behavioral changes can occur when an elderly adult experiences dehydration due to unconsciousness or having a seizure. Behavioral changes may be seen in an elderly adult that is lying on their back with their feet pointing towards their head or when they are standing up with feet planted apart and eyes closed.
5. Urinary System
The urinary system consists of the kidneys and ureters. Dehydration can damage kidneys, leading to kidney stones, or cause internal bleeding. When dehydration occurs, the elderly may experience an urgent need to urinate or may report pain in their bladder with or without blood in their urine.
6. Musculoskeletal System
Dehydration can cause muscle problems such as muscle cramps and muscle weakness in elderly adults
7. Central Nervous System (CNS)
Dehydration can lead to confusion, trouble speaking, dizziness and fainting due to changes in blood pressure within the brain which can cause a seizure or unconsciousness.
8. Reproductive System
When an elderly adult is dehydrated, their reproductive system can be affected including changes in the testicles and decreased sperm count.
9. Endocrine System
The endocrine system consists of glands that produce hormones that regulate functions of the body such as temperature and digestion. Dehydration causes the production of low levels of hormones which can result in weight gain or loss, fatigue, diarrhea and other problems with behavior.
10. Psychological Changes
Depression and confusion may occur in elderly adults who experience dehydration.
11. Death Due To Dehydration
In extreme cases, dehydration can lead to death due to complications such as heart failure or stroke.
12. Drugs And Substances
Abuse of alcohol or taking certain drugs or medications may cause an individual to become dehydrated, especially when in combination with other conditions such as a fever, infection or vomiting and diarrhea
Ways To Side Prevent Dehydration In Elderly Adults
1. Increase fluids in your diet
When an elderly adult is experiencing mild to moderate dehydration, increase water, sports drinks or herbal teas. Water, sports drinks and herbal teas are absorbed into the bloodstream and will prevent dehydration.
2. Use a rehydration solution
A rehydration solution is an easy and cost-effective way to treat mild dehydration. Rehydration solutions contain sugar which helps replace sugar and salts lost from dehydration. Rehydration solutions are available over the counter, either as a powder or in a liquid and should be consumed within 24 hours of opening to ensure the best possible quality.
3. Use salt tablets
Salt tablets are another way for an elderly adult to prevent an electrolyte imbalance due to dehydration. They are easy to carry around, inexpensive and can be added to food or water.
4. Seek medical attention
If a person has difficulty swallowing or has had surgery in the past or if they have been dehydrated for a long period of time then they could benefit from drinking supplements with a spoon. If drinking with a spoon is difficult, consider adding some cold lemonade to add flavor while still hydrating your body. An elderly adult with moderate to severe dehydration may require intravenous fluids or hospitalization in order to prevent serious complications such as death due to heart failure or stroke.
5. Maintain healthy habits
In order to prevent dehydration, an elderly adult should maintain healthy habits. They should drink at least six 8-ounce glasses of water a day and eat foods that are high in salt such as soup and canned vegetables. Dehydration can occur in an elderly adult due to medications or medications so make sure your loved one’s doctor is aware of all medication they are taking.
Conclusion
Although dehydration is not a common occurrence in the elderly, it should be treated as a serious medical condition. The elderly are more susceptible to various illnesses and conditions in which they can experience dehydration such as diabetes or heart disease. Dehydration can cause death by impairing their nervous system or heart function which could lead to serious complications such as death if left untreated, this is why it is important for an elderly adult to seek medical assistance when they begin experiencing symptoms of dehydration such as a headache, loss of consciousness, nausea and fatigue.